IGP dog training, formerly known as Schutzhund, is a rigorous and demanding canine sport that tests a dog’s abilities in three distinct phases: obedience, protection, and tracking. It’s designed to assess the dog’s intelligence, trainability, courage, and physical prowess. More than just a competition, IGP is a journey that builds an exceptional bond between dog and handler, showcasing the pinnacle of canine partnership. This training is not for the faint of heart; it requires dedication, patience, and a deep understanding of canine behavior from both the dog and the human involved.
The Three Phases of IGP Dog Training
IGP is structured into three distinct phases, each designed to test different aspects of a dog’s capabilities and temperament. Successfully completing all three phases at a high level is a testament to extensive training and a strong partnership.
Phase 1: Tracking (Fährtenarbeit)
The tracking phase is the foundation of IGP training. It evaluates a dog’s ability to follow a scent trail laid by a human handler. This phase is crucial because it demonstrates the dog’s natural scenting ability, concentration, and independence.
- The Track: A track, typically 300-700 paces long, is laid by a person who is not the dog’s handler. The track is left for a minimum of 30 minutes (for lower levels) to 2 hours (for higher levels) before the dog is sent to follow it. This time lapse is crucial as it allows the scent to mature and become more challenging to follow.
- The Search: The dog is given the scent at the beginning of the track and must follow it diligently, without any encouragement or direction from the handler. The handler must remain calm and allow the dog to work independently.
- Articles: Along the track, several articles (typically leather or fabric) are dropped. The dog must indicate the presence of these articles by lying down over them and remaining there until the handler arrives. This requires the dog to not only follow the scent but also to “find” and “alert” to these specific items.
- Evaluation: Judges assess the dog’s precision in following the track, its ability to find and indicate all articles, and its overall focus and composure. A dog that is easily distracted or veers off the track will be penalized.
Phase 2: Obedience (Unterordnung)
The obedience phase tests the dog’s responsiveness to commands, its willingness to work with its handler, and its precision in performing various exercises. This phase highlights the dog’s training and its mental engagement.
- Heeling: Dogs must walk perfectly on a leash and off-leash alongside their handler, performing various changes in pace and direction, including sharp turns and about-turns. The dog should be attentive to the handler, with its body in a classic heel position.
- Recall: The dog must come immediately when called, both from a distance and from a situation where it is released from a stay. The recall is often performed in a “bullet-proof” manner, meaning the dog runs directly to the handler and sits perfectly in front of them.
- General Commands: This includes “Sit” and “Down” in various positions and distances, as well as a “Stay” command where the dog must remain in place while the handler moves away.
- Send-Out: The dog is sent in a straight line away from the handler and must stop on command, then return to the handler.
- Retrieves: The dog must retrieve a dumbbell (wooden object) thrown in a straight line and also over a hurdle and a wall. This tests the dog’s drive and willingness to work for its handler.
- Evaluation: Judges look for precision, enthusiasm, and confidence in the dog’s performance. A dog that is hesitant, distracted, or disobedient will receive deductions.
Phase 3: Protection (Schutzdienst)
The protection phase is the most visually dramatic part of IGP. It evaluates the dog’s courage, nerve, and control when engaging with a “helper” (a person wearing protective padding). This phase is critical for assessing the dog’s natural protective instincts and its ability to be controlled in high-arousal situations.
- The Search for the Suspect: The dog must search a series of blinds (small huts) to locate the “suspect” (the helper). This tests the dog’s confidence and drive to search.
- The Bark and Guard: Upon finding the helper, the dog must bark and hold the helper at bay without biting, demonstrating its control and nerve.
- The Apparent Escape and Chase: The helper may attempt to run, and the dog must chase and apprehend them, delivering a controlled bite to the protective sleeve.
- The Release and Guard: After apprehension, the dog must release the helper on command and then guard them. This is a critical test of control and obedience under pressure.
- Re-apprehension: If the helper attempts to escape again, the dog must re-apprehend them.
- The Final Guard: The dog must guard the helper until the judge arrives, showcasing its final control.
- Evaluation: Judges assess the dog’s courage, willingness to engage, control, and its ability to release and guard. A dog that is overly aggressive, fearful, or cannot be controlled will be disqualified.
Is IGP Training Right for Your Dog?
IGP is not a one-size-fits-all training program. It’s best suited for dogs with specific temperaments and strong drives.
- Breed Suitability: While many breeds can participate, IGP is most commonly associated with German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois due to their inherent drives, intelligence, and physical capabilities. However, other working breeds with the right temperament can also excel.
- Temperament: An ideal IGP dog possesses courage, confidence, a strong work ethic, a high prey drive, and a stable temperament. They should be eager to please their handler but also possess a degree of independence and nerve.
- Handler Commitment: This is perhaps the most critical factor. IGP training requires a significant investment of time, energy, and resources. Handlers must be prepared for many hours of training, travel to training clubs and trials, and a deep commitment to understanding and working with their dog.
- Age and Health: Dogs typically begin training at a young age, but serious IGP work usually starts after they reach maturity (around 12-18 months, depending on breed and development). Dogs must be physically sound and healthy to withstand the demands of the sport.
Benefits of IGP Training
Beyond the competition itself, IGP training offers numerous benefits:
- Stronger Bond: The intensive training process fosters an incredible bond between dog and handler, built on trust and mutual understanding.
- Well-Behaved Companion: Dogs trained in IGP are often exceptionally well-behaved and obedient in everyday life. They learn impulse control and respect for their handler’s commands.
- Mental and Physical Stimulation: IGP provides a mentally and physically challenging outlet for dogs, preventing boredom and destructive behaviors.
- Community: Joining an IGP club offers a supportive community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for working dogs.
- Showcasing Canine Potential: It allows handlers to showcase the incredible capabilities and intelligence of their canine partners.
Getting Started with IGP Training
If you’re interested in IGP, the first step is to find a reputable training club affiliated with a recognized organization, such as the United States Dog Agility Association (USDAA) or the American Working Dog Federation (AWDF) in the US, or their counterparts in other countries.
- Research Clubs: Look for clubs that emphasize positive training methods and have experienced trainers.
- Attend Trials: Observe an IGP trial to see the sport in action and talk to participants.
- Consult Professionals: Speak with experienced IGP trainers and handlers about your dog’s suitability and the commitment involved.
IGP dog training is a challenging but immensely rewarding endeavor. It’s a sport that celebrates the working capabilities of dogs and strengthens the human-animal bond to an extraordinary level.
